🎯 New Brunswick Hunting Guide 2025-2026 – Complete Season Calendar, License Info & Game Areas
Welcome to your complete guide for New Brunswick’s upcoming game calendar! Whether you’re a local resident planning your annual hunting trips or a visiting outdoors enthusiast exploring the Maritimes, this comprehensive resource covers everything you need for the 2025-2026 schedule. From the rugged highlands of the Miramichi to the coastal marshes along the Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick offers diverse wildlife opportunities across 14 Wildlife Management Zones. We’ll walk you through permit requirements, tag rules, draw deadlines, and essential regulations to help you plan a successful and legal harvest adventure.
The province’s mixed Acadian forests and river valleys support healthy populations of whitetail deer, moose, black bears, wild turkeys, and abundant waterfowl staging areas. Let’s dive into the specifics so you can prepare for an amazing outdoor experience in Canada’s Picture Province.
📅 Quick Reference Points
Here’s what New Brunswick offers for the 2025-2026 schedule:
- Whitetail Deer – Archery: September 1-October 15; Rifle/Muzzleloader: October 12-December 7
- Moose – Draw-only tags; Archery: September 15-October 31; Rifle: October 10-October 31
- Black Bear – Spring: April 1-June 15; Fall: September 1-October 31
- Wild Turkey – Spring draw period: April 1-May 15; Fall: September 1-December 31
- Waterfowl – Ducks and geese: October 1-January 15 (Zone 2); October 15-January 29 (Zone 1)
- Upland Birds – Ruffed/spruce grouse: September 1-December 31; Woodcock: September 15-November 30
- Small Game – Snowshoe hare: September 1-March 31
- Youth Opportunities – Free federal migratory bird permits available for hunters under 18
Legal methods include archery equipment, modern firearms, and muzzleloaders depending on species and time periods. Always verify current bag limits and weapon restrictions before heading out.
Big Game Schedules
| Species | Method | Season Dates | Bag Limit | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whitetail Deer | Archery | September 1 – October 15 | 1 per license | Antler restrictions in WMZ 3-7 |
| Rifle/Muzzleloader | October 12 – December 7 | 1 per license | Spike-only in early rifle period (WMZ 3-7) | |
| Moose | Archery | September 15 – October 31 | 1 per draw tag | Draw applications: July 15-31, 2025 |
| Rifle | October 10 – October 31 | 1 per draw tag | Allocated by Wildlife Management Zone | |
| Black Bear | All Methods | Spring: April 1 – June 15 | 1 per hunter | No cub harvest permitted |
| All Methods | Fall: September 1 – October 31 | 1 per hunter | No hounds allowed in WMZ 1-4 |
Remember that detailed WMZ calendars and weapon-specific restrictions are published annually. For the most current quotas and zone-specific requirements, always check the official New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources and Energy Development website before your hunt.
Turkey Schedules
| Season Type | Method | Season Dates | Bag Limit | Application Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Turkey | Bow/Shotgun | April 1 – May 15 | 1 per license | Draw applications: March 1-15, 2025 |
| Fall Turkey | Bow/Shotgun | September 1 – December 31 | 1 per license | General license (no draw) |
| Youth Turkey | Bow/Shotgun | Special dates vary | 1 per license | Check provincial regulations |
Spring turkey requires a draw application, while fall periods operate under general licenses. Shotgun hunters must use approved shot sizes, and archery equipment must meet provincial broadhead requirements. Some Wildlife Management Zones may have restricted access or different bag limits.
Furbearer Season Dates
| Species | Season Dates | License Required | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coyote | Year-round (private land) | Landowner permission only | Fur Harvester License needed on public land |
| Red Fox | Year-round (private land) | Landowner permission only | Fur Harvester License needed on public land |
| Beaver | November 1 – April 30 | Fur Harvester License | Trapping regulations apply |
| Muskrat | November 1 – April 30 | Fur Harvester License | Wetland access restrictions |
| Bobcat | December 1 – February 28 | Fur Harvester License | Limited quotas by zone |
The free Fur Harvester License is mandatory for taking furbearers on public lands. Private land predator control requires landowner permission but no special permits. Check with individual Wildlife Management Zones for any additional restrictions or quota systems.
Small Game Dates
| Species | Season Dates | Daily Bag Limit | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ruffed Grouse | September 1 – December 31 | 5 | 10 |
| Spruce Grouse | September 1 – December 31 | 5 | 10 |
| Snowshoe Hare | September 1 – March 31 | 3 | 6 |
| Mourning Dove | September 1 – November 30 | 15 | 45 |
Small game provides excellent opportunities for new hunters and families. Shotguns with appropriate shot sizes work best for upland birds, while .22 rimfire rifles are popular for snowshoe hare. Remember that mourning doves are migratory birds requiring federal permits.
Complete Waterfowl Seasons
| Zone | Species | Season Dates | Daily Bag | Possession Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | Ducks (general) | October 15 – January 29 | 6 (max 1 Barrows Goldeneye) | 18 |
| All Geese | Sept 1-15; Oct 15-Jan 14 | 5 (plus 5 additional Canada/Cackling) | 20 | |
| Mergansers/Sea Ducks | Oct 15-Nov 1; Nov 2-Dec 31; Jan 1-5; Feb 1-24 | 6 (restrictions vary) | 12 | |
| Zone 2 | Ducks (general) | October 1 – January 15 | 6 (max 1 Barrows Goldeneye) | 18 |
| All Geese | Sept 1-15; Oct 1-Dec 31 | 5 (plus 5 additional Canada/Cackling) | 20 | |
| Mergansers/Sea Ducks | Oct 1-Nov 1; Nov 2-Dec 31; Jan 1-15 | 6 (restrictions vary) | 12 |
Both Zones:
- Woodcock: September 15 – November 30 (Daily: 8, Possession: 16)
- Snipe: October dates vary by zone (Daily: 10, Possession: 20)
All waterfowl hunters need federal Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permits and Canadian Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamps. Non-toxic shot is mandatory except for woodcock. Harlequin Ducks are protected with no open season.
Other Available Game
| Species | Season Dates | Bag Limit | Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crow | Year-round | No limit | Shotgun/Rifle | Not classified as migratory |
| Porcupine | Year-round | No limit | Any legal method | Considered pest species |
| Groundhog | May 1 – October 31 | No limit | Any legal method | Agricultural areas primarily |
These species provide additional opportunities throughout the year. Crows are especially popular for target practice and predator calling. Always respect private property rights and follow safe shooting practices when pursuing these game animals.
Zones Active for Hunting
New Brunswick divides into 14 Wildlife Management Zones (WMZ 1-14), each with specific regulations, quotas, and access rules. The province also maintains two waterfowl zones for migratory bird management.
Zone 1 (Waterfowl): Saint John County south of Highway 1, Charlotte County south of Highway 1, including Grand Manan and Campobello Island.
Zone 2 (Waterfowl): Remainder of New Brunswick, excluding certain closed areas like Tabusintac River Estuary and Bathurst Basin.
Wildlife Management Zones determine moose draw allocations, deer antler restrictions, and bear regulations. For detailed WMZ maps and boundaries, consult the official provincial wildlife management map.
Remember to distinguish between public Crown lands (free access with proper licenses) and private property (requires permission). Many prime areas require advance planning and landowner contact.
Licenses, Tags & Permits
Resident Licenses (2025-2026)
| License Type | Price (HST Included) | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| Big Game Bundle | $78.50 | Varmint, Bear, Deer, Game Bird (3 tags total) |
| Big Game Bundle (65+) | $42.75 | Same as above with senior discount |
| Deer-Bear Bundle | $66.75 | Deer, Game Bird, Bear licenses (3 tags) |
| Deer-Varmint Bundle | $45.75 | Deer, Game Bird, Varmint licenses (1 tag) |
| Small Game Bundle | $30.75 | Varmint, Bird, Small Game licenses |
| Individual Deer & Game Bird | $34.00 | Class 3 resident license |
| Moose License | $72.00 | Draw required, applications July 7, 2025 |
| Turkey License | $25.00 | Available March 17, 2025 |
Non-Resident Licenses
| License Type | Price (HST Included) | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Class 1 Deer & Game Bird | $183.00 | Available March 1st |
| Class 2 Bird & Small Game | $82.00 | Available March 1st |
| Bear Draw | $163.00 | March 17 – April 4, 2025 |
| Bear Leftover | $163.00 | Available April 14, 2025 |
| Moose Draw | $548.00 | May 20 – June 13, 2025 |
| Turkey License | $90.00 | Outfitter/Guide only |
Additional Requirements
- Outdoors Card: Free one-time registration required for all license purchases
- Federal Waterfowl Permits: Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit + Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamp
- Hunter Education: Mandatory certificate required for all hunters
- Youth Permits: Free federal migratory bird permits for hunters under 18
Similar comprehensive license systems exist across Canada, including detailed regulations in Alberta for western hunters seeking different opportunities.
New Brunswick Hunting Quick FAQ
Q: When do moose draw applications open for 2025?
A: Moose draw applications are available from July 7, 2025. Non-resident applications run May 20-June 13, 2025, with results announced before the season opens.
Q: Can I use lead shot for waterfowl in New Brunswick?
A: No, non-toxic shot is mandatory for all migratory game birds except woodcock. Lead shot possession is prohibited while waterfowl hunting.
Q: What’s the difference between Wildlife Management Zones?
A: Each WMZ has specific quotas, antler restrictions, and access rules. For example, WMZ 3-7 have spike-only restrictions during early rifle deer seasons.
Q: Do I need special permits for Crown land access?
A: No special permits required for Crown lands, but you need proper hunting licenses. Some areas may have seasonal closures or access restrictions.
Q: Are crossbows legal for hunting in New Brunswick?
A: Crossbows require special permits in New Brunswick. Standard archery equipment includes compound, recurve, and longbows with approved broadheads.
Q: What happens if I don’t harvest my animal during the draw season?
A: Draw tags are specific to the season dates. Unused tags cannot be transferred to other seasons or hunters.
Q: Can non-residents apply for resident license prices?
A: No, licensing is strictly based on legal residency status. Non-residents must purchase appropriate non-resident licenses and tags.
List of Related Guides
For hunters exploring opportunities across Canada, check out these additional provincial guides:
- Western Opportunities: Discover excellent elk and mule deer prospects in British Columbia with its diverse mountain and coastal environments.
- Prairie Game: Explore waterfowl paradise and upland bird opportunities in Manitoba throughout the Central Flyway.
These resources provide comparable depth and detail for planning multi-provincial adventures or comparing regulations across different regions.
Conclusion
New Brunswick’s 2025-2026 game calendar offers something for every type of hunter, from archery enthusiasts pursuing whitetails in September to waterfowlers extending their season into late January. The key to success lies in understanding draw deadlines, zone-specific regulations, and proper license requirements well before your planned hunting dates.
Remember that regulations can change, so always verify current information through the official New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources and Energy Development website before heading into the field. Purchase your licenses early, especially for draw species like moose and spring turkey. Plan your Wildlife Management Zone strategy based on your target species and preferred hunting methods.
Most importantly, practice ethical hunting principles and respect private property rights. New Brunswick’s hunting heritage depends on responsible outdoors enthusiasts who follow regulations and maintain positive relationships with landowners and local communities.
Bookmark this guide for easy reference throughout the season, and check back for updates as new information becomes available. Here’s to a safe, successful, and memorable 2025-2026 hunting experience in beautiful New Brunswick!
